by Melissa Clark Vickers       MEd, IBCLC Lactation Consultant

Question:

I understand there are new breastfeeding guidelines established by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Can you tell me about those new guidelines or where to get a copy of them?

Answer:

The American Academy of Pediatrics has been working on these new guidelines for quite a while and released those in the December issue of Pediatrics. They are excellent, and demonstrate a true commitment to protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding. 

• Among other things, the new guidelines recommend: 
• Breastfeeding as soon as possible after birth, preferably within the first hour of life;
• Rooming-in for moms and babies after birth
• Breastfeeding on cue--looking to the baby for signs that he needs to nurse
• Only giving supplements (water or formula) if medically necessary
• Encouraging moms to express or pump their milk if they can't nurse directly 
• Breastfeeding exclusively for the first 6 months or so, and that it should continue for at least 12 months, and then as long afterwards as mom and baby wish
• A trained observer should evaluate breastfeeding during the first 24-48 hours after delivery, with a follow-up visit 48-72 hours later.